Police warn van owners to be vigilant after eight reports of thefts in Chatham, and two each in Rochester and Gillingham

Detectives investigating a series of thefts from work vans in Medway are urging transit owners to remain vigilant and lock tools away.

Kent Police has received 12 reports of tool theft from vans parked across the Towns over the course of the last month.

Power tools, cable detectors and generators have all been reported stolen after van doors were forced and entry gained.

Eight thefts have been reported in Chatham, and two each in Rochester and Gillingham.

Detective Constable Craig Hewitt said: “We are investigating a number of reports of thefts from work vans in Medway and would urge members of the public to contact police with any information about people acting suspiciously in their area.

"I would also ask people to be aware of anyone offering cheap tools for sale - if it looks too good to be true, it probably is and what you could be buying is stolen goods.

“It is important to keep vehicles secure, even when they are parked outside the front of your home. They should always be locked and property never left in the van.”

If you have any information, call DC Hewitt on 01634 792726, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.